Baku hosts Sumo World Championships opening ceremony
Baku, October 18, AZERTAC
The opening ceremony of the 2026 World Sumo Championships was held at the Baku Sports Hall in Baku.
The ceremony began with flag-bearers leading the way into the arena to represent each participating country.
In his remarks, Farid Gayibov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, hailed the holding of the Sumo World Championship in Baku, emphasizing that special attention and care are provided to sports at the state level in Azerbaijan.
Atil Agamirov, President of the Association of Japanese Martial Arts and Culture, expressed his confidence that the competition would contribute to strengthening friendly relations among the countries.
Sho Hakuho, President of the International Sumo Federation (ISF), first extended his congratulations to the Azerbaijani people on hosting the World Championships and on the occasion of October 18 – the Restoration of Independence Day. He also expressed his gratitude to all organizers, staff, and participants involved in hosting the event.
The world’s strongest sumo wrestlers will face off on the traditional clay “dohyo”.
The World Championships for men, women, and juniors will take place over two days. Athletes from nearly 30 countries, among the most prestigious and strongest competitors in the world, will compete for medals.
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